Canberra Qwire, a proudly LGBTQIA+ non-auditioned community choir, is seeking applications from suitably qualified and experienced people for the position of Musical Director.

ABOUT QWIRE

Canberra Qwire brings together people from diverse sections of the queer family to challenge stereotypes and build a bridge between Canberra’s queer communities and the broader Canberra community. Since the founding members of Qwire stood up with pride in the 90s, Qwire has become increasingly diverse, welcoming people who identify not only as gay and lesbian, but also as asexual, bisexual, pansexual, genderqueer, genderfluid, intersex, trans and allies of the queer community.

Qwire welcomes members from the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities across the LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as our allies. Our choir consists of approximately 100 members ranging from late teens through to older members, all drawn together by their common love of music and singing.

Qwire performs across a broad range of genres and has members ranging from trained musicians to new singers. We pride ourselves on inclusive and innovative musical and artistic programming that champions our community, both locally and globally.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to and collaborating with the Qwire Committee, the Musical Director provides musical and artistic leadership for Canberra Qwire and works closely with the broader Music Team, including the Principal Accompanist, Assistant Musical Director and Assistant Accompanist.

As Musical Director, you will plan, manage and lead weekly rehearsals; prepare Qwire for performances, including major concerts and community events; and select repertoire and artistic direction in consultation with the Music Team and Committee. You will ensure music is available to members at the start of each semester and, with the assistance of the Music Librarian, source performance materials, learning tracks and any required copyright or licenses.





The Musical Director will manage and support the Music Team and help Qwire maintain its priorities of diversity, member participation, community connection and participation in relevant LGBTQIA+ events. Qwire has strong connections with other LGBTQIA+ choirs across Australia and is recognised as a leader in this network. The Musical Director will support and strengthen these regional connections, helping to position Qwire as a leader and provide outreach to the broader LGBTQIA+ choral community.

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL BE SOMEONE WHO:

· Is an experienced, collaborative choral conductor who can lead and inspire Qwire’s 100+ choristers with warmth and confidence

· Demonstrates musical skills of a high professional standard, including:

o the ability to read, interpret and conduct music o sight reading and sight singing skills o a good level of keyboard proficiency

· Has experience in running rehearsals, workshops and sectionals

· Has a proficient level of artistic planning and programming

· Facilitates the development of vocal production, rhythm, timing and overall choral production skills of choristers in an encouraging, inclusive and engaging manner

· Has experience working with choirs, with an understanding of the needs of a large, non-auditioned community choir

· Is a team player who can work collaboratively in small as well as larger teams

· Has an understanding of accessibility and inclusion principles

· Has excellent communication, collaboration and time-management skills

· Brings energy, enthusiasm, humour and a strong commitment to the role

· Is willing to abide by the behaviours and expectations set out in Qwire’s Code of Conduct





· Is eager to learn new skills or expand existing ones in a supportive, collaborative workplace

DESIRABLE SKILLS

· Ability to arrange music

· Understands copyright and licencing legal requirements with respect to sourcing and performing music

· Experience working with gender-diverse and/or neuro-diverse individuals

· Experience working with people with disabilities, and

· An understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community

TIME REQUIREMENTS

· Conduct regular 2-hour Thursday evening rehearsals from February to November, with a mid-year break. Rehearsal dates will be agreed with the Qwire Committee each semester, and the Assistant Musical Director may lead some rehearsals if needed.

· Conduct additional full-day or extended rehearsals as agreed with the Qwire Committee.

· Prepare and conduct Qwire for one or two main concerts each year.

· Prepare and conduct additional community performances as required, such as Candlelight Vigil, SpringOut Fair Day, Floriade and Enlighten Festival.

· Source, provide or help produce practice learning tracks for all new repertoire.

HONORARIUM AND FURTHER INFORMATION

An honorarium is available for this role and will be discussed with the successful applicant. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses may also be covered where required for performances.

The role is expected to commence formally in February 2027. Qwire will need the selected repertoire list in enough time before the first rehearsal to source any required licences, locate available learning tracks and print music books for the semester. Qwire would prefer a 2 to 3 year commitment.

Qwire welcomes applications from members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. All applications will be carefully considered before shortlisting and interviews.

- For more information or to submit an application, email Qwire Treasurer Leanne Linmore at [email protected].

Applications close 11.59pm Friday 25 September 2026.

📌 Canberra Qwire Musical Director (Belconnen)
🏢 Canberra Qwire
📍 Belconnen